Nigerian Tax Regulator Drops Charges Against Binance Executives
The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) in Nigeria has decided to clear Binance executives Tigran Gambaryan and Nadeem Anjarwalla of tax charges. However, Gambaryan is still being held in Kuje prison, while Anjarwalla managed to escape in March.
The executives were initially arrested in February during a meeting with Nigerian officials that took an unexpected turn. This incident occurred during their second visit to the country, with the previous visit also raising suspicions. The FIRS has now shifted the responsibility of the tax charges solely to Binance, the company, clearing Gambaryan and Anjarwalla of these specific allegations.
Despite this development, both executives are still facing money laundering charges. Gambaryan is scheduled to appear in court on June 19 for the money laundering charges, with the trial set to start the next day. Binance has been engaging in discussions with the Nigerian government to argue that Gambaryan does not possess decision-making authority within the company and should not be held accountable on behalf of Binance.
The outcome of the money laundering charges remains uncertain, but there is a growing push from family, friends, and others for the US government to intervene and facilitate the return of the US citizen, Gambaryan. His health has been rapidly deteriorating, having suffered from malaria and collapsing in court on May 23. Subsequently, he has developed pneumonia, further exacerbating his condition.
According to a family member, Gambaryan is not receiving adequate medical attention despite the court’s request for him to be taken to a medical facility. This alarming situation has prompted Gambaryan’s wife, Yuki Gambaryan, to express concerns about her husband’s deteriorating health and the urgent need for intervention to ensure his well-being.
The development in the tax charges against Binance executives sheds light on the complex legal and health challenges faced by individuals involved in international business dealings. The case underscores the importance of diplomatic intervention and the protection of individuals’ rights, especially in situations where health and well-being are at risk. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains critical to monitor the progress of the legal proceedings and the efforts to address the pressing health concerns of those involved.